Sirs:—In compliance with your request, I have to say that about a year ago I was called upon to decide which of several kinds of roofing material to select for two barrack buildings, which I was constructing for the Government at this place. Owing to the heat and moisture of the climate, very destructive to wood, and the proximity of the Gulf of Mexico, which makes what is known as a salt atmosphere, very injurious to iron roofing, I was induced to try your system, and ordered the 14 × 20 size, I. C. Standard, some painted and some galvanized. As it was previously almost unknown to me, I had to assume the risk of its success, and have since watched it very closely; the more so, as it was laid by soldiers entirely unfamiliar with it.
After the first rain a close inspection failed to reveal a single leak. I have had it inspected after every heavy rain since then with the same result. On the 20th inst. we had the severest gale for many years, and the roofs not only resisted it in every way, but there was no rattle, which could not be said of our other tin roofs (old system).
You can refer any one to me for commendation of these points which are established; also of its architectural beauty, and I have little doubt as to the rest, for we painted it very carefully on both sides.
I am, Sirs, very respectfully yours,
HENRY CLAY COCHRANE,
Captain U. S. Marine Corps, Commanding Post.
The combination of cherry and light oak proves an excellent one for over-mantels, for, in addition to contrast of grain, and figure, and hue, is that of the high polish of which cherry is susceptible with the somewhat ridgy surface of the oak.
One coat of paint takes 20 lbs. of lead and 4 gals. of oil per 100 square yards. The second coat, 40 lbs. lead, 4 gals. oil; the third, the same as the second—say 100 lbs. lead, 12 gals. oil per 100 square yards, for three coats.
| One gallon | priming colors | covers | 50 | square yards. |
| “ | white zinc | “ | 50 | “ |
| “ | white lead | “ | 44 | “ |
| “ | lead color | “ | 50 | “ |
| “ | black paint | “ | 50 | “ |
| “ | stone color | “ | 44 | “ |
| “ | yellow paint | “ | 44 | “ |
| “ | blue color | “ | 45 | “ |
| “ | green paint | “ | 45 | “ |
| “ | bright emerald | “ | 25 | “ |
| “ | bronze green | “ | 75 | “ |